Makerere University Department of Biochemistry

Makerere University Department of Biochemistry and Sports Science

Makerere University Department of Biochemistry – Details:

The Department of Biochemistry and Sports Sciences brings together two diverse but complimentary elements of science i.e. biochemistry which is the study of the molecular basis of life and sports science, an emerging discipline that applies scientific principles to understand factors associated with performance in sports or health and well-being. The department is responsible for teaching biochemistry and sports science in the Colleges of Natural Sciences, College of Health Sciences and School of Veterinary Medicine.

Department of Biochemistry

There is much excitement about biochemistry today across the world for various reasons: the discovery of the structure of DNA; the available knowledge, that organisms as different as bacteria and human beings use the same building blocks to construct macro molecules; the profound influence of biochemistry on medicine. The molecular mechanisms of many diseases such as sickle-cell anaemia and numerous inborn errors of metabolism have been elucidated. Assays of enzyme activity are indispensable in clinical diagnosis. Recombinant DNA technology is being used to produce valuable proteins like insulin, and is also important in agriculture; and the rapid development of powerful biochemical concepts and techniques in recent years that has enabled investigators to tackle some of the most challenging and fundamental problems in biology and medicine.

Sports Science as a branch of science has grown dramatically in the last two decades. The qualified sport scientist is, potentially, a useful resource that a sports coaches and athletes can use, to help address issues that may arise in their sports fields.

At Makerere University, biochemistry and sports science as areas of learning and research have developed with the rapid growth in knowledge and activity. Attempts are made to remain abreast with new developments thereby giving students’ training that is practical and relevant to the needs of the country.

Opportunities are abound for graduates of biochemistry and sports science. Career options for our graduates include a wide range of fields.

Sports Science

A BSc in Sports Science degree comprises 42 units (subjects) over three years of full-time study. The course normally commences in August or September each year.

Core Units Students normally have between 4-8 core units each semester over the three years of study. First year Core Units include: Basic Mechanics, Basic Statistics, Introduction to Psychology, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Basic Organic Chemistry, Introduction to Computer Science, Introduction to Sports Science, Growth Development and Skilful Acquisition, and introduction to Sports management.

The Year Two Core Units include: Introduction to Biochemistry, Biomechanics, Physiology of Sport and Exercise, Biochemistry of Sports and Exercise, Biomechanical Analysis of Sport, Sports Pedagogy, Sport Psychology, Biomedical Implications of Sport, Introduction to Sports Coaching and Research Methods in Sport and Exercise and Industrial Training (Internship).

Year Three Core Units include: Physical Fitness Assessment, Nutrition for Sports and Health, Theory and Methods in Training, Sociology of Sport, Application of Pedagogical Principles, Exercise Health and Ageing, The Elite Athlete and International Competitions, Sports Economics and Management, Ethical Issues in Sport and Exercise, Youth and Gender Issues in Sport and a Research Project.

Elective Units

Elective units must also be chosen (a minimum of two per semester except the final semester). A student is thus expected to have at least taken 10 Elective Units before graduation. We predominantly have all Physical Activity Courses (PACs) or Sporting Course Units under this section and they include the following; Football, Basketball, Swimming, Netball, Rugby, Handball, Athletics, Strength and Conditioning, Aerobics and Dance, Cricket, Volleyball, Gymnastics, Tennis, and Mind Games.

Admission Requirements:

Direct Entry – At least 2 principle passes from A- Level; and having done Science related courses including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, Agriculture, Mathematics, Computer Science, Entrepreneurship, and Geography. Non-Standard Entry Mature aged and other applications are also encouraged. Information on entry pathways is available at www.mak.ac.ug/undergraduate_admissions.

Makerere University Department of Biochemistry